Islamabad, May 10, 2026 – The Europe Today: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday paid glowing tribute to the leadership of Pakistan’s armed forces, led by Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asif Munir, for demonstrating “exemplary courage and valour” during Marka-e-Haq and Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos, and defeating what he described as the enemy’s nefarious designs in May 2025.
Addressing a ceremony held at Pakistan Monument to mark the first anniversary of Marka-e-Haq Bunyan-un-Marsoos, the prime minister said India had used the Pahalgam incident as a pretext to launch aggression against Pakistan, but Islamabad had acted with restraint and avoided escalating the situation.
He said Pakistan had offered a transparent investigation into the Pahalgam incident and warned the adversary against any confrontation. However, he alleged that India launched an “unannounced war” under the cover of darkness by targeting mosques, civilians and children.
“The armed forces of Pakistan gave a historic response to the enemy’s attack,” the prime minister said, adding that Pakistan’s soldiers and air force personnel displayed extraordinary bravery during the confrontation.
“Our missiles destroyed the enemy’s air defence system, while our falcons dominated the skies. Within just four hours, the enemy was compelled to call for a ceasefire,” he remarked.
The prime minister said that despite the passage of one year, India had failed to present evidence regarding the Pahalgam incident. He termed Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos a “historic military success” and a manifestation of national pride, courage and restraint.
Announcing that May 10 would henceforth be observed annually as “Marka-e-Haq Day,” he said the occasion would be commemorated every year with enthusiasm and patriotic spirit, though without a public holiday.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif paid tribute to the nation, armed forces and martyrs, stating that Pakistan’s youth and soldiers were inheritors of great traditions of sacrifice and bravery.
He particularly praised Field Marshal Syed Asif Munir for his leadership during the conflict, saying his “wise and courageous leadership” would be remembered in golden words throughout history.
The premier also lauded Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar and the Pakistan Air Force for downing enemy aircraft and exposing the adversary’s claims. He further congratulated Admiral Naveed Ashraf and personnel of the Pakistan Navy for their role in the victory, saying their preparedness deterred the enemy from approaching Pakistan’s maritime borders.
Prime Minister Shehbaz expressed gratitude to friendly countries for supporting Pakistan during the crisis. He especially thanked Donald Trump for what he described as a historic role in restoring peace in the region and preventing further escalation between two nuclear powers.
“If the flames of war between two nuclear states had intensified, the consequences could have been catastrophic,” he said, adding that President Trump played a decisive role in ending the conflict swiftly.
The prime minister also thanked Mohammed bin Salman, Recep Tayyip Erdogan and other friendly nations for their unwavering support to Pakistan.
Referring to China as a “trustworthy and time-tested friend,” he appreciated the support extended by the Chinese leadership and people during the crisis.
“The friendship between Pakistan and China is deeper than the oceans, higher than the Himalayas and sweeter than honey,” he remarked.
The prime minister further stated that Pakistan continued to make sincere diplomatic efforts for regional peace and had played a constructive role in encouraging dialogue between Iran and the United States.
He also commended Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar for his diplomatic efforts and praised Field Marshal Syed Asif Munir for his tireless dedication.
Highlighting Pakistan’s stance on international issues, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed the country’s unwavering support for the people of Gaza, Palestine and Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, who he said continued to face grave human rights violations.
“Pakistan will continue to provide diplomatic, political and moral support to its brothers and sisters until they are able to breathe in an atmosphere of peace and freedom,” he asserted.
Recalling Pakistan’s sacrifices in the fight against terrorism, the prime minister said the country’s armed forces and law enforcement agencies were continuing operations against Fitna al-Khawarij and Fitna-tul-Hindustan, while rendering immense sacrifices for national security.
He assured that the government would provide all possible resources for the education and training of youth to enable them to contribute effectively to the country’s development and prosperity.
